Abigail Smith Innovative Dance instructorAbigail took her first pre-ballet class when she was 3 years old and still loves to take ballet class to this day! The foundation of her classical ballet education included both the RAD and ISTD systems from Tessa Williams in Spokane. At 18 years old, she was offered an apprenticeship with the American Festival Ballet and danced professionally with them for the next 3 years, touring many of the western states.

As Abby pursued a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at Boise State University, she became one of the founding members of Idaho Dance Theatre, which soon became a company in residence at BSU. Not ready to step away from the stage after graduating, Abby continued dancing and touring with Idaho Ballet and finally Eugene Ballet.

In addition to dancing professionally, Abby has been teaching ballet since she was 22 years old. Locally, she has taught ballet and pointe at Lake Oswego Academy of Dance, Westside Dance Academy (16 years), International Leadership Academy, and Innovative Dance. As a teacher, she challenges her dancers to experience more discipline, respect, and joy toward themselves, their art, and those around them.

Abby also holds a Masters in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and is co-owner and acupuncturist at Pacific Northwest Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic. She artfully blends her athletic and dance experience with her western and eastern education to provide excellent sports injury care, among other conditions. She has extensive experience treating dance injuries and is a former member of the OBT Allegro Society, providing acupuncture to the ballet dancers of Oregon Ballet Theater.